IRVINE, CA (October 21, 2013): On Sunday, October 20, the Irvine Police Department’s investment in the recently purchased automated external defibrillators (AED) paid off. At 11:07 a.m., officers were dispatched to a “man down” at Cliffwood Park (Jamboree/Robinson). The man had collapsed on the tennis courts while watching family members play tennis.

First responders, Officer Britt Vickner and Sergeant Michael Fender, were nearby and responded with emergency lights and siren. Officer Vickner, assigned to the Portola area for the past six years as part of the Department’s geographic policing strategy, led the way. Because she was familiar with the area, there was no delay; she knew the exact location of the tennis courts. Sergeant Fender, a prior recipient of the Lifesaving Award himself, was right behind her. Arriving in less than three minutes, they worked in tandem, carrying the lifesaving equipment, first aid kit with breathing mask and AED, to the man’s side to render aid.

They repositioned the man and assessed his condition. He was not breathing and had no heartbeat. While starting CPR, the AED was attached and automated prompts indicated the man was also in need of a shock. The machine delivered the shock and monitored the CPR process aloud as it was continued. The Orange County Fire Authority arrived and determined the heartbeat had been restored. They stabilized the man and had him transported to a local hospital in critical condition.

“This is a wonderful affirmation of what we knew would be a worthwhile addition to the emergency equipment our officers carry,” commented Chief Maggard. “Our thoughts now turn to hopes that the man will be able to make a recovery.”

Forty-nine AEDs were purchased in July and distributed among the Department’s patrol cars. The $84,000 purchase was funded by the Supplemental Law Enforcement Services Funds (SLESF).